“Behind bars” program

The individuals that are for the program are mostly those that are directly in contact with the at-risk teens (parents, teachers, counselors, police officers, etc). There are many sources, such as books, websites and Shapiro himself who feel that the programs are effective. They believe the programs do in fact increase the rate of deterrence and that the proof is in the changes that occur within the teens immediately after the prison visit.

Those that are against the program feel that it does more harm than good for the teens. They feel the program mentally and emotionally hurts the teens and that the intimidation and fear evoking tactics are “inhumane.” Many refer to studies that have been conducted that prove these programs show no effectiveness towards deterring a teen. These studies have pushed government officials to suspend such programs in their states.